Week of July 1, 2018

Week of July 1, 2018

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Dear Parishioners,

As we ease into the summer months, I would like to recognize two people who are leaving working for the parish.

I would like to thank Bill Maguire for over ten years of service as Business Administrator. He decided to retire a little over a month ago and though this was a tough decision, he has made the transition to new management very smooth. Bill has been a faithful worker and does much of the behind the scenes work that keeps the parish running; making sure bills are paid and that facilities are maintained. Without a business administrator, the parish would not be able to function. I wish Bill well as he enjoys the full retirement he deserves.

We are also saying good-bye to Fr. Michael Vona who has been gracious enough to spend four of his retirement years with us. The clergy of this parish have enjoyed his help and friendship. He has allowed us to do so much more and has always been available when we need him. When someone is ordained a priest, they are a priest forever because of the mark it leaves on your soul. But, that does not mean that everyone is called to be in active ministry until their last days. When Fr. Vona began his vocation journey, he desired to be a monk. So, I hope that wherever he is and what he does, he keeps us in prayer and finds the peace of God that comes from contemplation.

We are also seeing the arrival Fr. Leon Buni this month. He will be working in the parish as well as in Jersey Shore University Medical Center as Catholic Chaplain. He only has the evening Sunday Mass this week. So, if you see him there, be sure to give him a big welcome. The rest of the parish will have to get to know him in the upcoming weeks. Change can be hard. But, I hope you can give him a chance. Fr. Leon is an incredibly joyful and friendly man and I’m sure you’ll love him immediately when you see him.

I would also like to wish everyone a Happy Independence Day this week. Pray for our president, governor and representatives, that they may make laws according to the will of God. Pray for our country that it may live up to the values it was founded on and that it may grow in holiness. May we remember how much we owe our Creator and never be afraid to live up to the values on which this country was founded.

God bless!

Fr. Carter